Bonfire Night in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire is a proper occasion. The city’s beachfront display is one of the largest free council-run fireworks events left in Scotland, and across the region a string of community displays bring towns and villages to life on and around 5 November.
Whether you’re after a spectacular show on the North Sea waterfront or a traditional bonfire in a country park, here’s where to be this year.
Aberdeen City | Thursday 5 November
Aberdeen’s annual fireworks display is on Thursday 5 November 2026, with the 20-minute show launching from the end of Port of Aberdeen’s North Pier at 7.30pm. Spectators should gather along the southern end of the Esplanade for the best views.
Park and Ride buses run from Bridge of Don and Kingswells directly to and from the beach. There is no event parking on site, with road closures in place from around 7pm, so public transport or walking is strongly recommended.
Wrap up warm and arrive early for a good spot.
Blue badge parking is available, access is from York Street from Wellington Street via Waterloo Quay. Space is limited and is available on a first come first served basis. At the end of the display, drivers will be held back until the crowds have left the area.
Image: Veli Bariskan Photography
Stonehaven | Sunday 1 November
One of the best community events in the North-east calendar - and not just for the fireworks. Mearns FM provide live music throughout the evening, the Mearns Camera Club are on site, a funfair runs all night and catering covers burgers, fish and chips, German sausages, doughnuts and sweet treats. The event is 100% volunteer run with all proceeds going to local charities and community causes across Stonehaven and South Aberdeenshire.
Public transport is strongly recommended - bus stops are right next to the park and the train station is a 10-minute walk. All council car parks in Stonehaven are free on the night. Wheelchair access is easiest via the Cowie bridge entrance. Wellies recommended.
Entry from 5.30pm, bonfire lit at 6pm, fireworks at 7pm. Tickets are £5 for adults and £1 for under 16s, cash or contactless at the gate.
Image: Craig Roy
Banchory | Saturday 7 November
This year’s event has an extra-special addition - a community lantern parade in collaboration with The Barn, the culmination of their Illuminate Together project, kicking off the evening before the bonfire is lit. DJ Pete McIntosh from Original 106 hosts the night with live music throughout, hot food stalls keep everyone warm and there are glow goodies for the kids.
Entry is by donation - suggested amounts are £5 per adult, £3 per child or £15 for a family of four, cash or card accepted at the gate. Every penny goes back into local community causes.
Entry from 5.30pm, lantern procession at 5.45pm, bonfire lit at 6.30pm, fireworks at 7pm.
Image: Rab Lawrence
Aboyne | 31 October
Aboyne’s bonfire and fireworks night on The Green combines a roaring bonfire and a dazzling fireworks display with a Halloween atmosphere for all ages - making it one of the most characterful events in the Deeside calendar.
The event will be held on the Aboyne Green, the same park the year highland games are run in.
This year's event starts at 5.30pm, with the bonfire being lit at 6pm and the firework display beginning at 7.30pm.
Ellon | 31 October
Ellon’s Sparks in Gordon Park kicks off the North-east fireworks season on Halloween night itself, making it a brilliant event in the calendar.
There’s a low-impact display at 5.30pm - ideal for younger children or those sensitive to loud noises, followed by the main display at 7.30pm. In between, a funfair, hot food, tea and coffee and light-up toys keep everyone entertained throughout the evening.
Fancy dress is warmly encouraged - witches, ghosts, pumpkins, superheroes and everything in between all welcome.
Entry by donation: £4 recommended for adults, £1recommended for children.
Planning a Bonfire Night visit to the North-east? Share your fireworks photos with us using #VisitABDN and #BeautifulABDN.
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Frequently asked questions
- When is Aberdeen’s fireworks display in 2026?
Thursday 5 November, 7.30pm at the Beach Esplanade. Free to attend, no ticket required. Fireworks are launched from Port of Aberdeen’s North Pier and last around 20 minutes.
- Where is the best place to see Aberdeen fireworks?
To get the best view of Aberdeen's fireworks, head to the south end of the beach esplanade near the Fittie toilets
- How do I get to Aberdeen’s fireworks display?
Park and Ride buses run from Bridge of Don and Kingswells directly to the beach. Road closures are in place from 7pm so driving is not recommended. Walking or cycling is encouraged for those nearby.
- Which Aberdeenshire towns have fireworks displays in 2026?
Ellon, Stonehaven, Kintore and Aberdeen , and Banchory and Aboyne. Most are community-run events with bonfires, food and family entertainment alongside the fireworks.
- Are the community fireworks displays free?
Most operate on a suggested donation. Stonehaven is £5 adults, £1 under 16s. Banchory suggests £5 adults, £3 children. Ellon suggests £4 adults, £1 children. Aberdeen’s display is completely free.
- Are the displays suitable for young children?
Yes. Ellon offers a dedicated low-impact display at 5.30pm ahead of the main show, ideal for younger children or those sensitive to loud noises. Most events have food, funfairs and entertainment from early evening.
- What should I wear?
Wrap up warm - November in the North-east is cold and most parks are wet underfoot. Wellies, layers and a waterproof are strongly recommended. Stonehaven specifically advises wellies.
- Can I bring my dog?
Fireworks can cause distress to dogs and other pets, particularly in crowded environments. We recommend leaving pets at home in a secure, quiet space rather than bringing them to a display.